Microsoft Xbox 360 Halo 3 Special Edition - Expert Reviews

Review summary: While it's missing a couple of potentially important features at launch, the Xbox 360 delivers the power and performance of a high-end gaming PC, including impressive digital media and networking features.

Pros: All games in high-definition ; excellent user-friendly Dashboard interface ; built-in support for wireless controllers ; excellent online gaming and communications via Xbox Live ; backward compatible with many (but not all) original Xbox titles ; ...

Cons: First wave of games is somewhat anemic ; noisy exhaust fan ; no built-in wireless networking ; only three USB ports ; no support for next-generation HD movie discs ; no DVI or HDMI output ; doesn't upscale DVDs to HD resolution ; gigantic oversize ...

Review summary: Microsoft first HD-ready games console arrives in Australia after an extended wait -- set your faces to stun!

Pros: HD graphics ; ability to stream content from a PC with Windows MCE 2005

Cons: No upscaling DVD video ; only one controller included in package

Verdict: Offering far more than just gameplay, the 360 heralds a shift to next gen home cinema  Page: 1 [2]

Review summary: Microsoft first HD-ready games console arrives in Australia after an extended wait -- set your faces to stun!

Pros: HD graphics ; ability to stream content from a PC with Windows MCE 2005

Cons: No upscaling DVD video ; only one controller included in package

Verdict: Offering far more than just gameplay, the 360 heralds a shift to next gen home cinema

Award: Editor's Choice!

Review summary: xbox 360 review: The first 'next generation' console to hit Australia, the Xbox 360 promises plenty of extras aside from gaming. Should you rush out and buy one? Read our extensive Australian review to find out.

Pros: Sleeker, smaller design for both the console and controllers, Wireless controller ability built-in, Redesigned Xbox 360 dashboard is now much cleaner and user-friendly, Excellent Xbox Live integration, Works seamlessly as a games machine, Outstanding ...

Cons: Clunky power box, No HDMI support, Hard drive not standard, First generation games feature great graphics, but probably only a little better than what some high-end PCs can produce

Verdict: The vast multimedia functionality and smooth Xbox Live integration of the 360 places it streets ahead of current generation consoles. The graphics may not blow everyone away, but it's an impressive overall machine from Microsoft.

Pros: Sexy Design, Incredible power, Music streaming and integration, Great controller

Cons: Some unsupported file formats, No HD-DVD drive, no non-MSC support, average launch line up.

Verdict: The Xbox 360 is an incredible piece of hardware with very little great software to choose from. In the end, the potential for future brilliance far outweighs its immediate appeal.